Fremantle’s over-30 brigade is winding back the clock in 2015.
Luke McPharlin, Matthew Pavlich, Aaron Sandilands, David Mundy and Michael Johnson are arguably in the club’s top 10 players this season.
AFL.com.au takes a look at our star veterans.
Luke McPharlin (33) Given McPharlin considered retiring at the end of 2014, it would take a significant turnaround for him to now go on into a 17th season. Still, more support in the backline to take the load off the veteran could convince him to play on with the lure of a premiership. He has played more than expected this season, notching 16 of a possible 18 games to account for injuries in Freo's backline. That could take its toll and be a factor in the All Australian's decision.
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Matthew Pavlich (33) When Pavlich signed a one-year deal to play on in 2015, he cited the "law of diminishing returns" to explain his output would soon drop off. He has played all 18 games and has said he'll keep playing as long as his mind and body are willing. He would still be of great value and the lure of a premiership in 2016 could keep him hungry.
Aaron Sandilands (32) Contracted until the end of 2016 and still among the AFL's elite ruckmen, Sandilands isn't ready to call time on a great career. After a string of injuries between 2011-13 kept him to 37 games in three seasons, he has missed just one game in the past two years. His decision to play on is crucial to keep Fremantle in the premiership hunt, but it could mean young ruckman Zac Clarke seeks more opportunities elsewhere after a long spell in the WAFL this season.
Match Preview: Fremantle v West Coast
David Mundy (30) An elite midfielder with at least two years of good football ahead of him, Mundy became a Docker for life when he signed a contract extension until the end of 2017. Hasn't missed a game in two seasons, ranking No.7 in the AFL for contested possessions (13.1 a game) and No.6 for clearances (7.1) this year.
Michael Johnson (30) The versatile defender has missed the past nine matches with a hamstring injury, but he is on the cusp of returning. Was excellent in the first half of the season and was duly rewarded with a contract extension until the end of 2017. All Australian in 2013 and still capable of reaching those levels when fit.
